ALL THAT WAS PROMISED

"All That Was Promised" is the second full-length studio album by US, New Jersy based death metal act Hath. The album was released through Willowtip Records in March 2022. It´s the successor to "Of Rot And Ruin" from April 2019. The quartet lineup who recorded the predecessor is intact on "All That Was Promised". Drummer AJ Viana is responsible for producing the album, just as he was on the previous releases by Hath.

...and if we start with the sound production, Viana has created a powerful, raw, and brutal sound production, which suits the material perfectly. It´s detailed and clear enough for all instruments and vocals to stand out in the mix, but still raw and brutal enough for the material to sound intense and aggressive.

"Of Rot And Ruin" saw Hath increase the pace of their music considerably compared to the 2015 "Hive" EP, which was more of a heavy mid-paced and at times even doomy affair. "All That Was Promised" sees Hath lower the pace a bit again and incorporate more dynamics. They can still blast away when that is called for (take a listen to "Decollation" for proof of that), but the sonic palette and different stylistic elements are quite extensive on "All That Was Promised". The album features elements from technical/progressive death metal, black metal, and post-metal (although the latter element only seldom occurs). The vocals are a combination of death metal growling and a raw aggressive shouting vocal style (often doubled), and occasional semi-melodic shouting vocal parts (which aren´t far removed from what you´ll find on Gojira´s albums). The instrumental performances are through the roof. Viana is an incredibly skilled drummer with a distinct sounding drumming style, who drives the music forward with great energy and conviction, and the guitar riffs and lead work are creative and sharp too.

"All That Was Promised" is through and through a high quality release from Hath, but it´s the unconventional and adventurous songwriting which is anything but linear, that takes the prize. Hath excel in intriguing songwriting ideas and their music is greatly entertaining at all times. You never quite know what comes next. It´s recognisable stylistic elements, but Hath still manage to combine those elements to form a pretty unique sound paired with a fierce brutal energy. A 4 - 4.5 star (85%) rating is deserved.

(Originally posted on Metal Music Archives)